The first thing that was apparent on Sunday was that NY bass player Jerome wasn’t in the line-up. Neither was drummer Ash. But on the drummer’s seat was Robbo from Spectrum. Spectrum has had less gigs recently as their bass player Broc has been under the surgeon’s knife. So that was 3 of the Heinous Hounds & 2 subs. Once Jerome’s absence had been factored in I could listen to the music. And musically they sounded as they should, though without him there were 3 vocalists & not the usual 4.

STEVE LUCAS & DAVE HOGAN AT THE ESPY NOV 2019

At the start there was a very small crowd but that wasn’t surprising as they began earlier than usual cos there was another band on after them on the day. As he began the 3rd song the classic Scratch My Back Dave shut his eyes. But as he opened them again at the end of the song he observed & announced to all that the crowd grew markedly as he sang. It had.

One of the great things about going to listen to this band is that you never know what will be delivered. They don’t know either until the second before the first note of the song is played. Their repertoire ranges from old blues, R & B to rock’n’roll; mostly covers but some originals by band members.

There were lots of dancers on Sunday who ranged in age from the under 5s who jigged enthusiastically to an older man who danced beautifully.

There are 2 more gigs at the Espy from this band before Christmas; December 1 & December 15. I’m already looking forward to the second of those.